Mikel Arteta tries to keep Alexandre Lacazette paid by clever Barcelona ploy

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Arsenal’s plans to tie rejuvenated striker Alexandre Lacazette to a new deal appear to be fading after reports in Spain suggested a move to Barcelona was being considered.

The Gunners face a crucial few months as they look to sort out their frontline. Indeed, uncertainty hangs over the majority of their options. Pierre Emerick-Aubameyang remains frozen following a disciplinary breach.

In addition, Eddie Nketiah is out of contract at the end of the season. French forward Lacazette is in the same situation as Nketiah, but his situation is more urgent given his recent turnaround.

In Aubameyang’s absence, the 30-year-old has scored five goals and provided four assists in 19 appearances this season. He also has team captain in a number of recent matches.

Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta admitted in December that he and his club are struggling to argue with Lacazette and Nketiah.

However, Last week we exclusively revealed that the Gunners are now planning to offer him a new two-year contract to extend his stay..

These plans may well be in ruins despite the latest Spanish speculation.

According to Fijachés, Barcelona are ready to give Lacazette a summer move to Spain.

Xavi loves the look of Alexandre Lacazette

Boss Xavi Hernandez is said to be impressed with Lacazette’s recent performances at Arsenal and considers him a perfect signing.

He reportedly wanted to make him the focal point of Barcelona’s attack, with players like Memphis Depay and Ansu Fati playing him.

And if they can get his signature on a free transfer, Barcelona are said to be willing to offer Lacazette a two-year deal. In addition, they will also include a number of incentives based on its and the club’s success as a sweetener.

And while he’s apparently a target this month, the outlet believes free movement in the summer is a likely outcome.

Vlahovic’s stakes rise for Arsenal

Lacazette’s potential exit will be a blow to Arteta, who has come to rely on the Frenchman.

It will also increase Arsenal’s need to bring in Dusan Vlahovic, who is a major target.

Interest in the 21-year-old Fiorentina striker is understandably widespread. Vlahovic has quickly established himself as one of the most requested strikers in European football. His over two-in-three goal ratio over the past 18 months, combined with his age, makes him a tantalizing option for contenders with deep pockets.

Huge fees are exactly what Vlahovic will order despite entering the final 18 months of his Florence contract.

From an English perspective, the most fervent interest has emerged from North London rivals Arsenal and Tottenham.

The gunners were declared by Athletic’s David Ornstein be the contender in the best position to win the shooter. Articles in the Italian press then indicated that they filed an offer that included lender Lucas Torreira as brand weight.

For now, Vlahovic remains a Fiorentina player. Corn through the mirror, their resolve may soon reach breaking point.

As such, the Gunners are hopeful that their bid for the Serbian will be successful and that they have a new leader for their attack.

READ MORE: Pablo Mari talks confirmed with structure of January deal hinting at Arteta’s long-term plan

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